Free School Meals

Free school meals are available to children whose parents are in receipt of one or more of the following benefits:

income support

income-based job seeker's allowance

income-related employment and support allowance

child tax credit with an income of less than £16,190 and not in receipt of working tax credit

support under part VI of the immigration and asylum act 1999

guarantee element of state pension credit.

Where parents are entitled to working tax credit during a four week "run on" period immediately after their employment has ceased, or after they have started to work less than 16 hours per week, their children are entitled to free school meals.

Children who receive income support or income based jobseeker's allowance in their own right are also entitled to free school meals.

Should you meet the above criteria, you can apply by using the application form in the useful downloads section.

Applications are usually processed the same day. If your child is entitled to free school meals you will receive a letter confirming the date when the meals will start. The school is also notified that your child is entitled to free school meals. In the meantime, you should continue to pay for free school meals until confirmation comes through. Schools may be able to arrange a reimbursement of any monies paid whilst your entitlement is being confirmed.

If you are not entitled to free school meals you will be notified in writing.